On October 3, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment issued a telegram requesting the consecutive opening of 2 bottom spillways of Hoa Binh Hydropower Reservoir, to ensure safety against floods.
Hydropower plants operating flood discharge always attract special attention from people and tourists, not only because of the majestic scenery downstream but also because of the rare peaceful beauty on the upstream lake.
On October 4, a reporter from Lao Dong Newspaper was present at Bich Ha port, Hoa Binh ward (Phu Tho province), recording a different scene. While the white water is rolling downstream, a blue, flat picture appears on the surface of Hoa Binh Lake, reflecting the surrounding mountains.
The clear water and convenient waterway traffic have attracted many groups of tourists to stop, board a boat to explore the lake and relax.
In addition to the natural beauty, Hoa Binh Hydropower Reservoir is also associated with the livelihoods of the people. From cage fish farming, transportation services to community tourism... have become the main source of income, opening up opportunities to exploit the potential of river tourism in the Northwest region.
Mr. Nguyen Van Tuyen - owner of a tourist boat at Ba Cap port, shared: "Tourists taking a boat on the lake are all excited by the clear blue water. These days, the number of visitors has increased significantly, and boats are much busier."
Mr. Tuyen's family raises fish in cages and provides tourist transportation services.
From the perspective of tourists, the scenery here leaves many emotions. Ms. Tran Thu Ha - a tourist from Hai Phong, said: "Sitting directly on a boat in the middle of the lake, watching the clear, calm water is completely different from the violence below the downstream area, I relax and want to preserve many moments".
According to an update from Hoa Binh Hydropower Company, as of 10:00 p.m. on October 4, the upstream water level of Hoa Binh Lake was at 115.89m. The water flow to the lake is at 5,411m3/s, the total discharge is 5,970 m3/s.
Speaking with Lao Dong, Pham Van Vuong - Director of Hoa Binh Hydropower Company, said that flood discharge is closely monitored, ensuring safety for downstream areas as well as activities on the lake.
